ignition

Ignition Control Module

for 2012 Ford F-150 5.0L V8 Coyote · 4WD

Difficulty

Moderate

Time

1.3 h

Tools

Steps

This procedure covers removal and replacement of the ignition control module on the 2011-2014 Ford F-150 5.0L V8 Coyote engine, including removal of necessary ignition coils and proper electrical connection procedures.

Warnings

⚠️Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 10 minutes before beginning work to prevent electrical shock and airbag deployment

⚠Allow engine to cool completely before working on ignition system to prevent burns from hot components

⚠Do not pull ignition coil connectors by the wires; use the tab release mechanism to avoid damage

ℹ️The ignition control module is integrated with the valve cover on the 5.0L Coyote engine; this procedure addresses the separate control module mounted to the valve cover

Tools required

Socket set (8mm, 10mm)Essential

Ratchet and extensionsEssential

Torque wrenchEssential

Flathead screwdriver

Dielectric grease

Anti-seize compoundEssential

Compressed air

Parts

Ignition Control Module × 1 — Use OEM Ford specification
Ignition coil connector retainers (if damaged) × 8 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
Allow engine to cool completely for at least 2 hours
Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 10 minutes
Remove engine cover by pulling upward on cover (press-fit retention)
Clean debris from valve cover area using compressed air to prevent contamination

Procedure

1
Identify ignition control module location
Locate the ignition control module mounted on the passenger side valve cover near the firewall. The module is a rectangular black plastic component with multiple electrical connectors attached to it.
2
Disconnect ignition coil connectors
Disconnect the electrical connectors from ignition coils 2, 4, 6, and 8 (passenger side). Press the connector tab and pull straight up on the connector body, not the wire. Note the firing order and connector positions for reinstallation.
⚠Pull only on connector bodies, never on wires to prevent connector damage
3
Remove ignition coils from passenger side
Remove the single bolt securing each ignition coil (coils 2, 4, 6, and 8) using an 8mm socket. Pull coils straight up with a twisting motion to break the seal with the spark plug. Set coils aside in order.
Torque spec
Ignition Coil Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
4
Disconnect module electrical connectors
Locate the main electrical connector(s) on the ignition control module. Press the red safety tab down, then squeeze the connector release tab while pulling the connector straight back away from the module. There may be 1-2 connectors depending on configuration.
5
Remove module mounting hardware
Remove the mounting bolts securing the ignition control module to the valve cover bracket using a 10mm socket. Note the position and orientation of any brackets or spacers for reinstallation.
Torque spec
Mounting Bolts34 Nm (25 lb-ft)
6
Remove ignition control module
Carefully lift the ignition control module away from the valve cover. Note the routing of any attached wiring harnesses and disconnect any additional wire retaining clips if present. Inspect the mounting area for corrosion or damage.
7
Prepare new module for installation
Compare the new ignition control module to the old unit to confirm correct replacement part. Apply a thin coat of dielectric grease to all electrical connector terminals on the new module to prevent corrosion and ensure good connection.
8
Install new ignition control module
Position the new ignition control module onto the valve cover bracket, ensuring proper alignment with mounting holes. Install mounting bolts hand-tight first, then torque to specification in a cross pattern.
Torque spec
Mounting Bolts34 Nm (25 lb-ft)
9
Connect module electrical connectors
Reconnect the main electrical connector(s) to the ignition control module. Push firmly until you hear and feel a click, then verify the red safety tab locks into place. Tug gently on connector to confirm secure connection.
10
Reinstall ignition coils
Apply anti-seize compound to spark plug threads if coils were fully removed from plugs. Reinstall ignition coils 2, 4, 6, and 8 into their respective cylinder positions, pressing down firmly to seat onto spark plugs. Install coil retaining bolts and torque to specification.
Torque spec
Ignition Coil Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
11
Reconnect ignition coil connectors
Reconnect the electrical connectors to each ignition coil in their original positions. Apply light dielectric grease to connector boots before installation. Push each connector down until it clicks into place.
12
Restore power and test
Reconnect negative battery terminal and torque to 35 lb-ft. Turn ignition to ON position without starting engine and check for warning lights. The check engine light should illuminate briefly then extinguish if module is functioning correctly.

Reassembly

Reinstall engine cover by aligning pins and pressing firmly until seated
Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated with locking tabs engaged
Verify all ignition coil bolts are torqued to specification
Double-check no tools or parts were left in engine bay

Verification

Start engine and listen for smooth idle with no misfires or rough running
Check for diagnostic trouble codes using an OBD-II scanner; no ignition-related codes should be present
Verify engine accelerates smoothly without hesitation or stumbling
Perform a test drive to confirm normal operation under various load conditions
Inspect for any fuel or oil leaks around disturbed components after test drive